13-03-2025
A meeting was held between Xsolla, a global commercial platform for game developers, and Azerbaijan’s leading game studios, initiated by the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IRIA).
During the meeting, discussions revolved around new perspectives on the partnership between IRIA and Xsolla, which began last year, as well as the development of the ecosystem in this context. Additionally, the country’s game studios exchanged ideas with Xsolla representatives and explored the broad opportunities that collaboration with the company could offer.
The Chairman of IRIA, Farid Osmanov, stated that the gaming industry in Azerbaijan has been experiencing rapid growth in recent years:
“In 2024, the number of game studios in Azerbaijan increased by 40%, reaching 24. This is a testament to the growing interest in game development, and as IRIA, we remain committed to supporting the growth of this sector.”
F. Osmanov emphasized that the partnership with Xsolla will play a crucial role in providing local game studios access to the global market, investments, and advanced expertise, while also contributing to Azerbaijan’s transformation into a regional leader in the industry.
At the meeting, Xsolla’s Regional Executive Director, Fuad Karimov, highlighted the significant potential for the dynamic growth of the gaming industry in Azerbaijan and provided detailed information on the company’s planned projects in the country.
As part of a partnership between Xsolla, Azerbaijani company StarNest, and PASHA Holding, preparations are underway for the establishment of a game development training center – Xsolla StarNest Academy.
IRIA will support the strategic development of the center. Additionally, an incubation program will be launched for local game studios. Game studios selected for the program will receive support from international experts, gain opportunities to showcase their games to a wider audience, and receive financial prizes to boost business development.
It should be noted that IRIA officially partnered with Xsolla in December 2024. The primary goal of this partnership is to expand training, technology, financial resources, and global market access opportunities for Azerbaijan’s game studios.